Sheep breed profile
Merino
Also known as: Spanish Merino, Rambouillet (related)
- Fine wool
- Spain
- medium
- Temperament: active
Merino is the premier fine-wool breed worldwide. Best fit in arid Western U.S. where humidity stays low; humid regions face fly strike and fleece-quality challenges. Shearing infrastructure and predator protection are essential.
Production & size
Mature size and output.
Female weight
125–180 lbs
Male weight
175–250 lbs
Daily gain
0.4 lbs/day
Fleece
12 lbs
Micron
18μ
Reproductive traits
Gestation
150 days
Lambs/ewe
1.2
Seasonality
seasonal
Maternal
good
Health & climate
Parasite resistance
fair
Heat tolerance
fair
Cold hardiness
good
Humidity tolerance
poor
Common health concerns
- Heavy wool requires fly strike management in humid regions
- Fleece break from nutritional stress affects fiber market value
Management requirements
Experience
experienced
Housing
basic shelter
Fencing
woven wire
Feed system
pasture, hay, grain supplement
Shearing
Required
Market access
Commercial market
fair
Direct-market appeal
excellent
Premium potential
Yes
Fine-wool premium markets (handspinners, mills) command meaningful price premiums for clean Merino fleece.
American Merino & Polypay Sheep Improvement Association →Primary purposes